EMDR

EMDR (EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION AND REPROCESSING) IS A PSYCHOTHERAPY TECHNIQUE THAT HELPS A PERSON ALLEVIATE EMOTIONAL DISTRESS THAT ARE THE RESULT OF A DISTURBING EVENT OR EXPERIENCE. 

 During the course of routine events and experiences, the brain stores away the information related the events.  If we encounter something disturbing or unpleasant, the brain can adapt to process that information while discarding the unnecessary reactions (negative self-talk, fearful emotions, etc.)  However, sometimes when a person experiences a traumatic event it may disrupt the way the brain can store that event and prevent the usual discard of the no longer useful associations.  This can cause the event information to be stored in memory along with the no longer useful emotions, physical sensations, and beliefs that would have been discarded under typical processing.  In short, the memory of the event feels as if it is lived in the present, instead of being processed as a past, no longer harmful event or experience. 

 EMDR works to change (or reprocess) the memory networks to remove the no longer useful associations. EMDR is an interactive therapy technique where the therapist and the client equally participate in the treatment.  As the name indicates, the therapist will direct your eye movements under a protocol that has been proven to relieve the psychological stress you experience while the brain is connecting to a traumatic or triggering experience. 

 If you desire to try EMDR therapy, you will undergo a consultation with your therapist to determine whether you are (psychologically) ready to undergo the treatment.  You will need to commit to a series of sessions that include establishing your history, planning the treatment, preparing you with coping techniques, targeting memories, the actual EMDR treatment protocol, and evaluating your progress. 

 Multiple research studies have shown that EMDR is effective for treating symptoms of PTSD.  Many clients find longer-term benefits and sustained reduction of the distressing symptoms of PTSD.  While not yet proven, EMDR is sometimes used to treat other mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and panic disorders. 

 Our therapists are licensed clinicians trained in EMDR by the EMDR International Association.